The Forest Service is working to keep Sabino Canyon running for another twenty years and now they want your opinion about shuttle operations at the park.
Before moving forward with that twenty-year permit plan, forest officials want the public's input on their four new alternatives for future operation of the Sabino Canyon Tram.
The alternatives proposed range from a "baseline" alternative, in which no permit would be issued for shuttle operations, to alternatives requiring compliance with new design features involving noise, safety, and emissions.
Here's a summary of all four alternatives:
- Alternative 1: the baseline, no-action alternative, in which a permit would not be issued and effectively end the service.
- Alternative 2: A permit for the operation and maintenance of a shuttle system would be issued. It would mandate compliance with several new design features required for shuttles and operations to avoid or reduce adverse environmental effects.
- Alternative 3: would grant a permit for the operation and maintenance of the existing shuttle system.
- Alternative 4: Similar to number two, however, it includes the addition of one early morning and one late-evening shuttle.
According to forest officials, comments can be submitted online, by e-mail, fax (520-760-2506), or delivered in person at the Santa Catalina Ranger district office.
Persons commenting should include:
- Name, address, telephone number, and organization represented (if applicable).
- Title the correspondence: Environmental Assessment for Sabino Canyon Shuttle Authorization.
- List specific facts, concerns or issues, and supporting reasons why the comments should be considered.
All comments must be submitted by October 13.
The Coronado National Forest will review the comments on them to use in their decision on whether to grant a new permit by July 2017.
